There seems to be somewhat of a consensus that Natls is Ashley's to lose.

She said this in her own words last year...but this year? Well, I say too soon to know. Yes, the SP has great potential (and the FS too if Twitter comments are to be believed) but can she deliver under pressure?

And most importantly: at this year's Nationals she will be battling the Curse of the Defending Champion. Hasn't been broken since MK days

She said this in her own words last year...but this year? Well, I say too soon to know. Yes, the SP has great potential (and the FS too if Twitter comments are to be believed) but can she deliver under pressure?

And most importantly: at this year's Nationals she will be battling the Curse of the Defending Champion. Hasn't been broken since MK days

All true - but I was thinking about the rest of the podium too.

Is there a chance that Caroline, Mirai or Rachael can win Silver or Bronze?

I think there is a good chance one of them will shine at Natls this season.
I think there is a better than average chance that one or even two of the favorites will mess up.

She said this in her own words last year...but this year? Well, I say too soon to know. Yes, the SP has great potential (and the FS too if Twitter comments are to be believed) but can she deliver under pressure?

And most importantly: at this year's Nationals she will be battling the Curse of the Defending Champion. Hasn't been broken since MK days

Well, in 2011, Alissa Czisny became the first two time National champion since Michelle Kwan. Maybe we'll see the first defending champion since Kwan this season. I kinda hope so.